MnDOT update on flooded state highways in south central MN

The Mankato office of the Minnesota Department of Transportation advises no unnecessary travel in areas of recent flooding.

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The Sleepy Eye Herald Dispatch

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Posted Jun. 19, 2014 at 1:27 PM

Posted Jun. 19, 2014 at 1:27 PM

The Mankato office of the Minnesota Department of Transportation advises no unnecessary travel in areas of recent flooding.

Crews are out clearing mudslides and installing traffic control. Road conditions are changing quickly.Officials warn that roads may be closed or restricted without warning as flash flooding and mud slides are difficult to predict.

Hwy 169 SB between St. Peter and LeSueur – use caution – status being monitored

Highways with prior RESTRICTIONS REMOVED – NOW OPEN

Hwy 13 near Kilkenny

Hwy 14 west of Springfield

Hwy 19 west of Henderson

Hwy 83 north of St. Clair – watch for workers

Every flood is dangerous. If you must travel, follow these safe driving practices:

Check www.511mn.org before traveling for information on road conditions, closures and detour routes.

Expect the unexpected – flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere.

Do not drive around barricades or into flooded areas.

If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground, if you can do so safely.

Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pick-ups.

When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.